Psychiatric illness in female physicians

PREVIEW

A literature review suggests that half of female MDs may experience a psychiatric illness, most likely depression, during their lifetime. Compared with the general population, female physicians with a psychiatric illness are less likely to seek treatment (in part due to stigma) and more susceptible to suicide (because of access to drugs). Increased awareness of risk and removal of barriers to effective treatment could help more female physicians to enjoy a satisfying medical career.